INFLUENCE OF SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE AND CHLOROPHYLL-A ON MACKEREL PRODUCTIVITY IN BANTEN BAY, INDONESIA: ANALYSIS USING AQUA MODIS DATA (2014–2023)

Banten Bay, located in Banten Province near Java Island's northwestern tip, supports abundant mackerel populations (Rastrelliger sp.), a primary fishing commodity impacting coastal communities' livelihoods.Mackerel migratory patterns are sensitive to oceanographic conditions, making them indicators of marine ecosystem health.This study investigates the impact of these conditions on mackerel catches in Banten Bay waters using Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (Aqua MODIS) data from 2014 to 2023, combined with catch records from the Nusantara Fishery Harbor (NFH) Karangantu and analyzed using the Generalized Additive Model (GAM).The results indicate increased mackerel productivity, particularly during the west season (October to December), coinciding with upwelling-driven Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) rises.Sea Surface Temperature (SST) distribution analysis revealed seasonal fluctuations (29.33C -31.32C), supporting mackerel aggregation in warmer waters.Chl-a levels peaked during upwelling seasons, enhancing mackerel food availability.Sea depth analysis showed successful catches at depths around 50-60 m.GAM analysis confirmed SST and Chl-a as significant factors, with SST having a dominant influence.The combined effect of SST and Chl-a best-explained mackerel distribution patterns provides insights for sustainable fisheries management.